I have received quite a large number of requests on how I did the finish on my Crown of the Ocean.

Because of the response this piece received, I decided it's time to share just how simply this aged finish is to do. Keep in mind that I am not replicating this finish exactly. I am using a different crown base with different colors because this base will be used on my next crown. You'll have to stay tuned to see how it turns out!

Step 1: Coat crown base in gesso. I do this so that the paint that will be applied in the next step stays nice and vivid without absorbing the chipboard color.

Step 2: Apply acrylic paint with a sponge brush. I brush it on and then dab over it to give it a rough finish. It's also a great way to hide brush strokes that you don't want to be seen.

Step 3: Once the paint has dried, use a sponge brush and randomly dab the iron paint from the VerDay kit onto the base. Remember, perfection and precision are the enemy here.

Spray with patina spray and apply second coat according to product instructions. Once it has cured, about 4 hours, this is the finish you end up with.

Step 4: Be sure to carefully read the directions on the bottle of leafing adhesive. If it is applied incorrectly, your leafing will not stick properly and will flake off. Once your adhesive has dried for the requisite amount of time, stick the leafing on like you would do foiling. Again, precision is not the goal here. We want a random, muddled look that adds to the aged finish.

Step 5: Use a SOFT paintbrush and brush away the excess leafing and finish the edges. If you notice you have some hard edges in the leafing, simply scratch at it with your finger nail. I recommend using a cheap synthetic watercolor brush. A hard brush will remove the leafing.

Keep brushing the leaf and finishing the edges until you are happy with how it looks. You can also reapply the adhesive and leaf to cover any "holes" you may see.

Step 6: The easiest way to I have found to shape the crown without creasing it is with a heat tool. Gently heat up the chipboard bases from behind and slowing shape the crown until the ends connect. Take your time and be patient otherwise you will end up with creases.

Connect the crown pieces with the brads that are included and call it done!

The wonderful thing about this finish besides how simple it is to do is the crown could be considered complete at this point. It's such a beautiful and high impact look that any further embellishing is not necessary. However, if you're like me, more is more!